God designed us to require regular rest in order to function at our best. But as the world gets busier and busier, finding true rest can seem almost impossible. How can we find rest when the pace of the world moves so fast? What’s the difference between rest that rejuvenates us and hollow pursuits that merely distract us? What role does rest play in our personal walk with Jesus? The Bible has lots to say about rest, and what we can learn from it is more important than ever in the midst of our modern culture.
Communication is the foundation for any good relationship. That’s why prayer is such an essential part of the Christian life. So why do so many Christians find it hard to pray? What does the Bible mean when it says to “pray without ceasing”? What kinds of misconceptions about prayer do we carry with us from past experiences? Guest Kyle DiRoberts unpacks a biblical view of prayer and encourages us into a simple, regular and habitual practice of prayer for everyday life.
The first step in strengthening any relationship is honesty. Confession is the process of, in humility, being honest with God about who we are and where we struggle. Through Christ, our shortcomings are met by the incredible gift of grace and we receive forgiveness. When we understand the amazing truth about who God is and what He’s done, it should always lead us to a place of thanks and praise.
Putting the teachings of Jesus into practice will result in a changed life. Jesus challenges his followers to fill their hearts and minds with God’s Word so much that they would speak and act as an overflow of what they’ve heard. While the world tempts us to build our lives on temporary things like career, success or family, Jesus encourages us to make Christ himself our foundation.
“Judge not and you will not be judged” is one of the most often quoted Bible verses of all time, but rarely is it quoted within its context. Why are we so quick to judge others? And does Jesus really mean that we should never judge anyone for anything? What about actions that are clearly outside of God’s design for life? The truth behind Jesus’ words is that he’s calling his followers to live differently than the rest of the world - showing both wise discernment as well as radical mercy - modeled perfectly by Christ himself.
It can be easy to love the people we get along with, have much in common with, or have a longstanding relationship with. It can be hard to love those we don't have much in common with, and even more difficult with those who hate us or have even harmed us. Whether it be easy or difficult, Jesus teaches us to love the people he puts in front of us, even those who are hard to love.
While the world encourages us to seek comfort, riches and approval in the here and now, Jesus shows us that true blessing comes from an eternal perspective no matter our circumstances. The teachings of Jesus challenge his followers to focus on the eternal Kingdom of God to come.
Did Jesus come to do away with Old Testament laws? The religious leaders of his day were convinced Jesus was breaking the law God had given them through Moses, but Jesus’ teaching points us to the truth: the Gospel of Jesus Christ is actually the perfect fulfillment of God’s law.
Jesus defied expectations at every turn. As he forgave the sins of a man who was paralyzed and sat to eat with sinners, Jesus revealed his purpose: to seek and save the lost. Every step of the way, religious leaders of the day missed the point as they held tight to their self-righteous pride.
Jesus calls his first disciples out of their comfort zone and into a life of purpose with an object lesson on trust. It’s the same call given to all Christians to go and make disciples of Jesus Christ - to follow Him in faith even when the circumstances look hopeless.
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